Manchester City told AS Roma defender Marquinhos is not for sale - Report

By Josh Pedley 2013-01-21 13:45:00 20130121

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Manchester City have been told that AS Roma defender Marquinhos is not for sale after making tentative inquiries about the young Brazilian, according to the Manchester Evening News.

Marquinhos, 18, moved to the Italian club last season after impressing in his first few outings for Corinthians and has quickly established himself alongside his former Timão teammate Leandro Castán as first choice for the Giallorossi.

So far this season he has made 12 appearances for coach Zdeněk Zeman and his performances are now attracting interest from other big clubs around Europe.

Both Manchester City and Barcelona have been told by Roma that the young defender, who is yet to be called up for the senior Brazil team, is not available for transfer, while Real Madrid are believed to have sent scouts to watch the player.

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is in the market for another defender after losing faith in Joleon Lescott and with Kolo Toure away with the Ivory Coast at the African Nations Cup in South Africa.